All SI reports in both study periods were examined and the following data retrieved the total number of reported sharps injuries from all sharp items, e.g. needles, scalpels, scissors. The next step was identifying how the injury occurred using 7 standard, post-patient EPINet categories, and seven additional categories. These included 1. Recapping, 2. Other after use, before disposal, 3. Item left on disposal counter, 4. Putting item into disposal container, 5. Due to overfilled container, 6. Due to container opening/nature of sharp item, 7. Due to other reasons, 8. Protruded from disposal container, 9. Pierced side of disposal container, 10. Picking up from floor after bouncing out of container, 11. Picking up from floor after spillage or rupture of container, 12. Pierced side of inappropriate disposal container, 13, While collecting rubbish from waste bin. 14. All other (predominantly during patient procedure)

Of the above categories, 3-11 were grouped as CRSI. When records were insufficient to categorize SI per the above scheme, the staff member suffering the injury was contacted and further details obtained. In addition to SI data the average daily OB and average daily total full-time equivalent staff (FTE) for both study periods were sought from each hospital. 

Three major parameters, CRSI, Non-CRSI and Total SI per 100 OB/yr and per 100 FTE/yr, were compared for the two study periods. In addition all 14 SI categories were calculated per 100 FTE/yr and compared. All data were assessed statistically using a Paired t-test and significance was set at P<0.05. The study did not receive industry or grant funding.